Recent history has reminded us of the necessity of supporting small, minority-owned businesses. According to a report by the Office of Advocacy, minority business owners in the U.S. were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic in 2020, with Black-owned businesses showing the greatest losses in earnings. Covid-19 only widened existing inequalities for minority business owners, but it also emphasized the power of being more intentional with where we spend our money. Brooklyn boasts some of the best shopping in New York City, and much of it can be attributed to minority-owned retailers who shape the borough’s vibrant neighborhoods and communities.
With that in mind, we’re spotlighting a selection of Black-owned, Brooklyn-based fashion retailers to shop during Black History Month and, more importantly, to support year-round.
Scroll on to discover the locals creating waves in women’s and men’s clothing, statement-making accessories, fine jewelry, vintage, and more.
Sincerely, Tommy
343 Tompkins Ave.
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Since opening in 2014, Sincerely, Tommy has become a destination for Brooklynites and visitors of the borough. Owner Kai Avent-deLeon is a Bed-Stuy native who previously managed stores for Artizia and Chanel. With an expert eye, she curates a selection of emerging womenswear brands, accessories, and lifestyle products. The shop also has an in-house coffee bar that draws an equally stylish crowd.
Style Eyes Optical
1005 Flatbush Ave.
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They might be the last item you put on, but they’re the first you notice: your glasses. Style Eyes Optical is a boutique specializing in statement-making eyeglasses and sunglasses designed to enhance your vision and personal style. Owner and stylist Margie Toney handpicks each frame the shop carries from independent labels. Stop by for some eye candy or for a comprehensive eye exam.
Marché Rue Dix
1451 Bedford Ave.
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Cafe Rue Dix Brooklyn began as a Senegalese-Parisian-style cafe in 2013. The owners, wife and husband Nilea Alexander and Lamine Diagne, have since transformed the cafe into a high-concept store, tucking a restaurant, nail studio, and men’s and women’s clothing under one roof. From the menu to the products, the shop takes inspiration from the vibrant culture of Dakar. It also carries Rue Dix Originals, an in-house line of essentials like hoodies and tees that feature the brand’s logo artwork.
Paperboy Prince Love Gallery
1254 Myrtle Ave.
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Artist and activist Paperboy Love Prince has created a meaningful space with Love Gallery. The colorful shop carries vintage clothing as well as items from local Black and Brown designers—but it’s much more than that. Love Gallery also acts as a mutual aid center equipped with a community fridge and library outside the store to collect donated food and books. With a broad range of events and programming, the shop draws in locals and tourists alike with vibrant art shows and performances.
28 Scott Vintage
108 Thames St.
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Founder Tiffany Nicole started her journey selling vintage items in her native Chicago. She then brought her passion for one-of-a-kind finds to New York City and operated a store next to the Louis Vuitton boutique in SoHo. After years of selling vintage in Manhattan, she now heads 28 Scott Vintage in Bushwick. In addition to carrying an eclectic mix of vintage clothing and accessories from all over the world, the store also sells hand-loomed rugs, decorative objects, books, records, and much more.
Norie Shoes
325 Lafayette Ave.
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Natasha Norie Standard is the CEO and founder of two footwear companies: Eqwal Footwear and Norie Shoes. As a former major in the U.S. Army, Standard produced the first military combat boots designed for women under her Eqwal brand. With Norie Shoes, she aims to provide luxury footwear made by Italian artisans who prioritize comfort. The brand prides itself on not selling four-inch heels, using platforms on sneakers, and opting for block heels instead of stiletto heels.
Bernard James
181 Franklin St.
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Bernard James has become a go-to for fine jewelry and has been seen on celebrities, including Brad Pitt, Zayn Malik, Emma Grede, and Law Roach, among many others. His Greenpoint store carries his coveted, unisex jewelry collections as well as a line of articles for the home. If that’s not enough inspiration, check out the rotation of artwork on display by various artists.
The Brooklyn Circus
150 Nevins St.
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Founder Ouigi Theodore has created a menswear line that resonates well beyond the borough’s borders. The brand’s popularity has even caught the eyes of mass retailers, including Gap and Puma, which have partnered with The Brooklyn Circus on recent collaborations. The Boerum Hill location carries a wide range of clothing, accessories, and footwear to elevate a man’s wardrobe, like varsity jackets, hoodies, caps, and sneakers.
The post The Black-Owned Fashion Hubs You Need to Know appeared first on BKMAG.
